Esther M. Garcia

In Loving Memory of Esther M. Garcia, Devoted Wife, Loving Mother, Proud Grandmother, and Lifelong Sacramentan.

Esther M. Garcia passed away peacefully on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the age of 73, surrounded by the love she so freely gave in her lifetime. A proud lifelong resident of Sacramento, Esther leaves behind a legacy of strength, faith, humor, and unconditional love.

Born to Daniel and Ascención (Lily) Lopez, who preceded her in death, Esther grew up in a family that taught her the value of hard work, service, commitment to family, and cherished relationships. She was also preceded in passing by her beloved older sister Linda Lopez-Vasquez, and her beautiful first-born child and son, Robert (Bobby) Jr. Though their loss was immeasurable, she carried their memory with her every single day, and she now joyfully joins them in the eternal peace of God's embrace.

Esther graduated Sacramento High School one year early to commence a twenty-year career at Pacific Bell where she spent the first chapter of her career, breaking barriers by rising from office staff to a position in the field as a frameman wearing her bell-bottomed pants. This was at a time when it uncommon for women to take those roles. At Pacific Bell, she met Robert (Bob) M. Garcia whom she later married and together they shared over 45 years of life and creating memories. Her proudest role was that of a mother. She stepped away from the workforce to raise her children, Bobby, Daniela, and Michael, with fierce love and unwavering devotion. She selflessly dedicated herself to their care, growth, and happiness. They were her whole heart, purpose, and joy- and she was their home.

After nearly a decade away from the workforce, Esther felt called to serve her community once again. This time it was at the Sacramento City Unified School District. What began as a lunchroom position grew into a full second career, culminating in her role serving in school office administration. She became a familiar and beloved presence to countless children and families, always offering a kind word, a warm smile, and the steady love and compassion of someone who truly cared. She selflessly gave heart complete heart to her work, the children of the schools, and school community.

After retiring for a second time with a full heart, and proud of the work that she had done and the lives she had touched, Esther faced several health challenges with quiet strength, dignity, and grace. In recent years, she had various health challenges, but through them all, her fierce love and service for her family never wavered. She said that her family gave her the greatest joy and being with them was her peace. Though her body tired, her love is her legacy and cherished by her family. And, now, she answered her final call. That call was to be reunited with her parents, sister, and son in the peace and love of God's perfect embrace.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Robert (Bob) Garcia, loving daughter, Daniela (Dan), beloved son, Michael, step-daughter, Marcella, her three cherished grandchildren who brought light to her days and pride to her heart, her daughter-in-law, Holly Dzurinko, numerous nieces and nephews, and siblings, Mary Alice Karis, Daniel Jr. Lopez, and Andrew Lopez. She will be missed deeply by those who loved her. Her family meant everything to her, and her legacy lives on in their stories, strength, and love.

Esther joyfully served her family and friends with food and crafts, and her kitchen table was the center of their home where everyone always had a seat and was welcomed with her bright smile. She loved planning and executing gatherings, investing her time and heart into her children and giving them the most beautiful of childhoods. Her family brought her the greatest joy, which she always reminded them. Esther's warmth and heart modeled the fruits of the spirit.

Family and friends are warmly invited to join us for Esther's funeral service, which will be held on Wednesday, May 21, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter-All Hallows Catholic Church in Sacramento, CA, followed by a celebration of life at Monsignor Corkell Parish Hall at St. Peter-All Hallows. A Rosary and vigil will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at W.F. Gormley & Sons Funeral Chapel (2015 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, CA, 95811). Free and ample parking is available at all locations.

Esther, you were our home, strength, and comfort. Thank you for your unconditional love.

You are missed beyond words and loved forever and always. Until we meet again, we will hold you in our hearts every day. Descanse en paz.